An attempt to contract for an illegal purpose—to commit a murder or other crime or to facilitate an illegal objective (a promissory note for the purchase of illegal drugs)—is unenforceable and does not create a contract. A purported contract that is found to be for an illegal purpose is void and treated as if it never existed.
In Indiana, as in all states, a contract that is created for an illegal purpose is considered void and unenforceable. This means that if a contract's objective is to commit a crime, such as murder, or to facilitate an illegal activity, such as the purchase of illegal drugs, the law treats the contract as if it never existed. Indiana law, consistent with general contract principles, does not recognize any legal obligation on the parties to fulfill the terms of an illegal contract. Furthermore, the courts will not assist in enforcing the terms of such a contract. This is based on the public policy consideration that the law should not be used to promote or condone illegal activities.